Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XXXI, South and Central America; Mexico

246. Memorandum From the President’s Special Assistant (Dungan) to the President’s Special Assistant for National Security Affairs (Bundy)¹

Washington, January 18, 1964.

It seems to me that the Special Group might, at an early date, give consideration to the interests of the United States in the Chilean election which occurs in December 1964.² No one familiar with Latin American affairs has any doubt as to the importance of the outcome of this election, not only in Chile but throughout the hemisphere.

I believe it is an opportune time for us to review what our posture should be toward the two major non-communist political groupings and whether we should be furnishing indirect assistance to either or both.

I would suggest that State and CIA be given the assignment to make an assessment of the situation—an updating of the recent NIE³— and make a recommendation with regard to support. This should be undertaken promptly, in my opinion.⁴

RAD

1. Source: National Security Council, 303 Committee Files, Subject Files, Chile thru 1969. Top Secret.
2. The presidential election in Chile was scheduled for September 4.
3. Reference is to NIE 94–63, “The Chilean Situation and Prospects,” October 3, 1963, an analysis “with particular reference to the September 1964 presidential elections.” (Foreign Relations, 1961–1963, vol. XII, American Republics, Microfiche Supplement, Chile)
4. At the end of the memorandum is the following typewritten note: “Mr. Jessup telephoned Mr. Dungan to advise him that Chilean proposals have been approved recently and another paper may be forthcoming in a few weeks. Mr. Dungan never returned the calls.”